Following the 2010 U.S. Census, Missouri’s 1st Congressional District was the subject of a very famous and controversial drawing – namely, the redrawing of the district map to accommodate for population losses in St. Louis city and county.
But the congressman for the district, before and after this contested drawing was produced, U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay, also likes to encourage artists whose productions are less political in nature.
For 28 years, the U.S. Congress has sponsored the Artistic Discovery Congressional Competition, and for the past 12 years Clay has conducted the competition in Missouri’s 1st Congressional District.
This year, 50 young artists from area high schools displayed their entries at a special exhibition at Portfolio Gallery in Grand Center. Clay also awarded a winner, runner up and two artists who tied for 3rd place.
Madeline Green of Parkway North High School won 1st place with her acrylic on canvass piece Night Out.
Leah Schaffer of Clayton High School won 2nd place with her photograph Hello World.
And Devin Upchurch of McCluer High School (Sphere, oil on canvas) and Moni Buford of Parkway North High School (A‘more, watercolor on canvass) tied for 3rd place.
Madeline Green’s colorful acrylic painting on canvass, entitled Night Out, was unveiled on Thursday at the U.S. Capitol Complex. She traveled to Washington, D.C., courtesy of Southwest Airlines, to unveil her winning entry.
“As you can see from the artwork on display here, the level of talent is truly impressive,” Clay said an overflow crowd of young artists, parents and teachers at Portfolio. “Your work is inspiring, and I encourage all of you to continue to develop your creative talents.”
To participate in next year’s contest, contact Clay’s office at 314-367-1970.
